Tip of the week: Do your hardest work when your energy is highest

Not all hours are equal. Most people have times of day when they think clearly and times when they feel slow. Matching tasks to your energy gives better results with less effort.

Notice your pattern for a few days. Are you sharp in the early morning or after lunch? Plan demanding tasks, like pricing, planning, writing offers or sorting accounts, for your best hours. Save routine tasks, like tidying or simple errands, for low-energy times.

A salon owner in Dodoma who feels fresh at 6 a.m. might do her accounts and planning before opening, instead of when she is tired at night.

Protect your best hours from interruptions. Turn off notifications and let others know you are busy.

Look after your energy too: sleep enough, drink water, eat properly and take short breaks. A tired owner makes expensive mistakes.

This week: observe your energy for three days and schedule your hardest task for your best time.